Meet and Greet
After going over this first module I have come up with a new technique to use in my upcoming class. I will create study groups and place them according to their age group and experiences. I think this will take them out of their safe haven and encourage them to think out of the box.
Sharon,
This is a great ice breaker and is fun for the students to participate in. You are right about how these interactions can quickly spread into friendships and support groups.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
We created a ice breaker for the first week of class that allows us to get to know our student demographic. It is very helpful to know what their interests are, what ethnic backgrounds and languages we have in the classroom. We ask the students to find another person in the class that shares their similar interest, shoe size, is married, has kids, speaks a different language. This way they have to introduce themselves to everyone in the class and find out a little about the other people in the class. I have seen friendships bloom from this interaction.
Vicki,
Good points about how to start a new class. I always enjoy starting a new class because I get to meet new students and learn that they have extensive life experiences upon which I can call throughout the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree, the meet and greet sessions that I have in my classes are always so rewarding. Not only do I get to know the students a little bit better the students themselves often discover that even though they may appear quite different on the outside most share similar challenges, fears, goals and reasons for being there. It helps build student confidence and sense of belonging.
Lacy,
I do to. I can hardly wait to start a new class because I get to meet and greet a group of individuals that I do not know and learn about them and their lives. That is exciting and once I get to know them I get to be a part of their career development. This is a win win for me.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I love the meet and greet part of class. I enjoy getting to know my students and it helps me prepare for what needs they may need. It sets the mood for the term.
Dionne,
I think you are really going to like the results you get from implementing this strategy. Let me know how it works for you.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
